Osayi (Nigeria Player): "Morocco Will Fear Us After Our Win Against Algeria"

11 January 2026at16:26

Nigerian international Osayi Samuel expressed his immense joy following his country's 2-0 victory over Algeria, emphasizing that collective performance and tactical discipline were key to securing their spot in the semi-finals of the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations.

“We kept a clean sheet and scored two goals; we played very well,” he stated.

The Nigerian right-back added, “One of the Algerian players, I don't remember his name, hit me in the face, and I overreacted a little. I should have used my experience more. We were already leading, and my reaction came after that incident.”

He continued, “But there was nothing serious about it. The most important thing is the match, and we won today, which is what truly matters to me.”

Regarding the semi-final clash against Morocco, Osayi Samuel commented, “It will undoubtedly be a difficult match, as Morocco is a great team. The way we are currently playing, and keeping another clean sheet against a goal-scoring team, confirms that we are in good form.”

He affirmed, “Morocco will respect us and will fear us, and that is what we want – to achieve strong victories and send clear messages. Today's match was one of them.”

Nigeria is set to face Morocco next Wednesday at 9 PM at Prince Moulay Abdellah Stadium in Rabat, in the semi-finals of the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations.

Q&A

What did Osayi Samuel say about the incident during Nigeria's match against Algeria?

Osayi Samuel admitted to "overreacting a little" after an Algerian player hit him in the face, though he downplayed its seriousness, stating the win was paramount.